The Nigerian Senate has formed an ad hoc committee to investigate Cameroon’s alleged encroachment on its oil wells. Led by Senator Jimoh Ibrahim, the committee is tasked with reporting back in two months. The motion underscores the loss of significant territory and resources, provoking discussions on national sovereignty and international law enforcement.
The Nigerian Senate has established an ad hoc committee to investigate allegations concerning Cameroon’s encroachment on Nigerian territory, specifically regarding oil wells. Senate President Godswill Akpabio announced the formation of the committee during plenary sessions, following substantial support from senatorial members via voice votes. The committee, led by Senator Jimoh Ibrahim of Ondo South, is tasked with providing a report to the Senate within two months, inclusive of recommendations.
In addition to Senator Ibrahim, the committee includes Senator Seriake Dickson of Bayelsa West, Senator Ipalibo Banigo of Rivers West, Senator Adeniyi Adegbonmire of Ondo Central, Senator Shehu Kaka of Borno Central, Senator Agom Jarigbe of Cross River Central, and Senator Ekong Samson of Akwa Ibom South. Notably, Senator Aniekan Bassey from Akwa Ibom North-West, who sponsored the motion titled “Illegal annexation of Nigerian mangrove islands, waters, and its crude oil by the republic of Cameroon,” is also a committee member.
Senator Bassey articulated that the annexed areas do not belong to Cameroon under existing accords. He asserted that this encroachment has resulted in the appropriation of over 2,560 oil wells and is damaging Nigeria’s economic interests. Additionally, he emphasized that such actions compromise Nigeria’s territorial integrity and contravene various legal frameworks, including the International Court of Justice (ICJ) rulings and sections of the Nigerian Constitution.
Senator Ibrahim highlighted the necessity for Nigeria to escalate this matter to the United Nations, stating, “The senate cannot keep quiet when there’s a threat to the sovereignty of our country”. He added that the transgression concerns territorial rights and poses risks of environmental catastrophe and diminished national revenue. Senator Victor Umeh recommended swift action to enforce the ICJ ruling regarding the disputed mangrove islands, emphasizing a moral obligation to uphold legal judgments in favor of Nigeria.
Other senators, including Barau Jibrin, Deputy Senate President, Abdul Ningi, and Asuquo Ekpenyong, expressed similar sentiments during discussions on the motion. The newly formed committee is expected to collaborate with important stakeholders, such as the National Boundary Commission, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and various security agencies to address the issue comprehensively.
In conclusion, the establishment of the ad hoc committee by the Nigerian Senate signifies the seriousness with which lawmakers are addressing the alleged territorial encroachment by Cameroon. With plans for a thorough investigation and recommendations to be presented within two months, it reflects a proactive legislative response aimed at protecting Nigeria’s territorial integrity and economic resources. Senators emphasize the necessity for swift enforcement of international legal decisions and engagement with key national and international stakeholders to safeguard Nigeria’s interests.
Original Source: www.thecable.ng
